The sad flycatcher is a species of bird in the family Tyrannidae, the tyrant flycatchers. It is endemic to Jamaica.
Region
Caribbean (Jamaica)
Typical Environment
Occurs across much of Jamaica in humid to semi-humid habitats. It uses evergreen and semi-deciduous forests, forest edges, shade coffee, and second-growth thickets. Often perches quietly in the midstory, sallying into clearings or along trails. It tolerates moderately degraded forest and wooded farmlands, provided some mature trees remain for nesting cavities.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1800 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The sad flycatcher is named for its plaintive, downslurred whistles that sound like a melancholy 'wee-oo'. It is a cavity nester, using tree holes, bamboo, or fence posts. Although tied to forest, it adapts to edges and secondary growth, which helps it persist despite habitat changes.
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with quick sallies from perches
Social Behavior
Typically seen alone or in pairs, maintaining small territories. Forms monogamous pairs during the breeding season and nests in natural cavities or old woodpecker holes. Both sexes help defend the nest site.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A plaintive, downslurred whistle repeated at intervals, giving a sad, mournful quality. Also gives sharp chips and scolds when alarmed. Song carries well through forest edges and clearings.
Plumage
Olive-brown upperparts with gray head and breast, pale yellow belly, and rufous edgings on the wings and tail. Subtle pale wing bars and a slightly darker face. Tail often shows warm rufous from below with dusky edges.
Diet
Primarily hunts flying and perched insects such as beetles, flies, moths, and orthopterans, taken by sallying from exposed perches. It also gleans from leaves and branches. Small berries and other soft fruits are occasionally eaten, especially in the non-breeding season.
Preferred Environment
Forages from low to mid-canopy along forest edges, clearings, trails, and in shaded agroforestry like coffee plantations. Prefers open perches that allow short aerial sallies.
